We propose 12 XMM observations of 40ks each to survey the CMZ and capture theechoes of SgrA*.s past flares as they propagate in this region. Since XMM lastobserved the central 200pc, these events have been scanning the moleculardistribution along the line of sight. The deep survey we propose will thereforeprobe the time variability of all known reflection features. Using thedescription of SgrA*.s past flares, in terms of age and duration, we will thenpair each feature with its illuminating event and therefore give a line-of-sightposition for all illuminated clouds. Combined with existing kinematicsinformation, the new XMM survey will fully constrain the dynamical descriptionof the CMZ, providing the first unambiguous 3D model of the region.
Instrument
EMOS1, EMOS2, EPN, OM, RGS1, RGS2
Temporal Coverage
2020-09-06T07:08:09Z/2020-10-05T01:14:08Z
Version
18.02_20200221_1200
Mission Description
The European Space Agencys (ESA) X-ray Multi-Mirror Mission (XMM-Newton) was launched by an Ariane 504 on December 10th 1999. XMM-Newton is ESAs second cornerstone of the Horizon 2000 Science Programme. It carries 3 high throughput X-ray telescopes with an unprecedented effective area, and an optical monitor, the first flown on a X-ray observatory. The large collecting area and ability to make long uninterrupted exposures provide highly sensitive observations. Since Earths atmosphere blocks out all X-rays, only a telescope in space can detect and study celestial X-ray sources. The XMM-Newton mission is helping scientists to solve a number of cosmic mysteries, ranging from the enigmatic black holes to the origins of the Universe itself. Observing time on XMM-Newton is being made available to the scientific community, applying for observational periods on a competitive basis.
European Space Agency, Dr Maica Clavel, 2021, '3D survey of the Central Molecular Zone', 18.02_20200221_1200, European Space Agency, https://doi.org/10.57780/esa-divvrrl
